Margaret Atwood, the renowned Canadian author of 'The Handmaid's Tale' and 'The Testaments', has expressed her thoughts on the dragons in HBO's 'Game of Thrones'. While her opinions may not be widely known, her insights offer an intriguing perspective on the series. In a 2015 article for The Guardian, Atwood delves into the dragons' portrayal, particularly those controlled by Daenerys Targaryen, the Mother of Dragons. She notes that dragons are a familiar concept in fantasy literature, drawing parallels to various mythical creatures from different cultures and genres. However, Atwood takes issue with the dragons' portrayal in 'Game of Thrones', describing them as 'superweapon bazookas' that lack the nuanced and symbolic nature of dragons in other works. This critique highlights Atwood's appreciation for dragons as more than just powerful weapons, but as symbols of power, wisdom, and even miserliness, as seen in 'Beowulf' and 'The Hobbit'.
Atwood's fascination with Daenerys Targaryen is evident in her article. She admires Daenerys' leadership and her ability to command dragons, a power that Atwood associates with strength and intelligence. Daenerys' character, in Atwood's eyes, embodies the ideal leader who won't betray her principles, a stark contrast to other characters in the series. This admiration for Daenerys is further emphasized by Atwood's prediction of her success in the series, hoping she would defeat the Night King and reclaim the Iron Throne. However, Atwood's predictions were not accurate, as Daenerys' impulsive actions led to her downfall and the destruction of King's Landing. This discrepancy between Atwood's expectations and the actual events in the series adds an interesting layer to her commentary.
Atwood's analysis of 'Game of Thrones' dragons and her connection to Daenerys Targaryen showcase her deep engagement with the series. Her insights offer a unique perspective on the portrayal of dragons and leadership, blending her expertise in fantasy literature with her personal interpretations. While her predictions may not have come true, Atwood's commentary remains a compelling read for fans of 'Game of Thrones' and fantasy literature alike, inviting readers to reflect on the complexities of power, leadership, and symbolism in the series.
